Exploring the Enchanting Pelion: A Greek Adventure with My Spouse

Seeking Serenity in the Heights of Pelion

Today, Lena and I embarked on a journey that touched both the soul and the palate. It was a day of panoramic views, savory discoveries, and the simple joy of experiencing Greece together. From a mountaintop cross to the heart of local flavors, Pelion continued to reveal its enchanting character.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tavern Pelion Geuseis Portaria. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a refreshing change from the Berlin air I'm accustomed to. We ordered traditional Greek coffee and some local pastries. The coffee was strong and rich, just the way I like it, and the pastries were flaky and sweet, providing the perfect energy boost for our morning adventure. Lena enjoyed a yogurt with honey, raving about its freshness and the subtle floral notes of the honey itself. The restaurant was cozy, with a rustic charm that made us feel instantly at home. It was a great way to start the day, fueling us up for the sights ahead. The tavern was wonderful, halfway up the mountains, and I could tell everything was made from scratch with fresh ingredients.


Experience the heart of Greek cuisine at Tavern Pelion Geuseis in Portaria - where every meal tells a story.

With our appetites sated, we set off towards the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point. The drive itself was an experience, winding through narrow roads flanked by dense forests. As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly spectacular, with glimpses of the Pagasetic Gulf sparkling in the distance. When we reached the observation point, I was struck by the sheer presence of the cross against the vast backdrop of the landscape. It was a humbling experience, a moment of reflection amidst the grandeur of nature. The view from up there was simply breathtaking. We could see the entire coastline, the villages dotting the hillsides, and the endless expanse of the Aegean Sea stretching out before us. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of the moment, but no image could truly convey the feeling of standing there, suspended between earth and sky. Lena and I spent some time simply soaking it all in, appreciating the peace and tranquility of the surroundings. It was a reminder of the simple beauty that can be found when we take the time to seek it out. I thought about my parents back in Czechia and how much they would have loved this view. I made a mental note to try and convince them to come visit us in Berlin and then maybe we could all come here together. I think they would appreciate the spiritual nature of the site and the serenity of the surrounding nature.


Discover breathtaking panoramic views from the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point, a serene escape on the enchanting Pelion Peninsula.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

Next on our itinerary was Manolas. This was a small village, and it felt like stepping back in time. The village was quaint, with narrow streets and traditional stone houses. We wandered through the village, taking in the sights and sounds of daily life. The aroma of home-cooked meals wafted from open windows, and the sound of laughter echoed through the streets. We stopped at a local taverna for a light lunch, sampling some of the regional specialties. The food was simple but delicious, made with fresh, local ingredients. I tried a local sausage, while Lena opted for a salad with feta cheese and olives. As we ate, we watched the locals going about their day, chatting with neighbors and tending to their gardens. It was a glimpse into a way of life that felt both timeless and deeply connected to the land. Manolas Tavern is known for having the best fried calamari in Pelion and seafood to die for. The village of Agios Kyriaki is particularly charming. I made a mental note to come back to this area again.


Discover the charm of Ag. Kiriaki with fresh seafood and local flavors at Manolas – a culinary delight by the sea.

As evening approached, we made our way back towards Portaria, where we had reservations for dinner at Loukoulos. This restaurant had been recommended to us by several locals, who praised its modern take on traditional Greek cuisine. The atmosphere was elegant yet relaxed, with soft lighting and a cozy ambiance. We started with a selection of mezes, including tzatziki, dolmades, and fried zucchini flowers. Each dish was bursting with flavor, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. For our main courses, I chose the lamb chops, while Lena opted for the grilled octopus. The lamb was tender and succulent, cooked to perfection and seasoned with aromatic herbs. The octopus was equally delicious, with a smoky char and a delicate, slightly sweet flavor. We paired our meal with a local red wine, which complemented the richness of the food perfectly. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel like honored guests. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, a culinary journey that left us feeling satisfied and content.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Loukoulos in Chania – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors.

After dinner, we decided to take a stroll through the village, soaking in the atmosphere of a Saturday night in Pelion. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, as locals and tourists alike gathered in the town square. We stopped at Grappa Vino & Aperitivo for a nightcap. The bar was lively and vibrant, with a wide selection of local wines and cocktails. I ordered a glass of tsipouro, a traditional Greek spirit, while Lena opted for a glass of local red wine. As we sipped our drinks, we watched the world go by, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful corner of Greece. The staff was friendly and helpful. There was a cozy atmosphere that hosted wine tasting every Monday night. I made a mental note to see if we could come back on Monday. I feel like I am expanding my knowledge of wine on this trip, which is something that I have wanted to do for a while.


Discover Grappa Vino & Aperitivo in Volos: a delightful wine bar offering exquisite local wines and appetizing dishes in a warm, inviting setting.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, hand in hand, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. From the spiritual heights of the Cross of Jesus to the culinary delights of Loukoulos, Pelion had once again exceeded our expectations. It was a day of contrasts, of quiet contemplation and lively celebration, of ancient traditions and modern innovations. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but wonder what adventures tomorrow would bring, especially with our planned visit to Limnionas Beach. I was looking forward to seeing the mythological mountain and the beaches nestled between the Pagasetic Gulf and the Aegean Sea. I am excited about visiting the viewpoint in Portaria as well. I am also excited to shop at Mediterraneo Art Store. I am also looking forward to the food at Akti, 1701 Wine Restaurant, and Meintani (Niki's Taverna). I am excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Limnionas Beach and enjoy the coastal scenery, so stay tuned for more tales from Pelion!